EPISODE · Jan 12, 2026 · 8 MIN
Iran protests: What’s happening?
from What in the World · host BBC World Service
The streets of Iran have been filled with protesters for the last few weeks. What initially started as dissatisfaction over the economy has turned into a nationwide uprising which keeps escalating.The Iranian security forces have responded by firing tear gas into the crowds of people. According to human rights groups, hundreds of demonstrators have reportedly been killed. Amongst those confirmed dead is fashion student Rubina Aminian, whose family have been able to identify her body. But information out of the country remains sparse, as the government has shut off the internet.Now the US President Donald Trump has weighed in on the protests, threatening military intervention. We’re joined by Ghoncheh Habibiazad, a senior reporter at BBC Persian - she explains why people are protesting and what life is like for young people in the country.Shayan Sardarizadeh from BBC Verify also explains how reporters are able to access footage despite limited connection.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Iqra Farooq Producers: Benita Barden, Emily Horler and Emilia Jansson Editor: Harriet Oliver
What this episode covers
The streets of Iran have been filled with protesters for the last few weeks. What initially started as dissatisfaction over the economy has turned into a nationwide uprising which keeps escalating.The Iranian security forces have responded by firing tear gas into the crowds of people. According to human rights groups, hundreds of demonstrators have reportedly been killed. Amongst those confirmed dead is fashion student Rubina Aminian, whose family have been able to identify her body. But information out of the country remains sparse, as the government has shut off the internet.Now the US President Donald Trump has weighed in on the protests, threatening military intervention. We’re joined by Ghoncheh Habibiazad, a senior reporter at BBC Persian - she explains why people are protesting and what life is like for young people in the country.Shayan Sardarizadeh from BBC Verify also explains how reporters are able to access footage despite limited connection.Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +44 330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: Iqra Farooq Producers: Benita Barden, Emily Horler and Emilia Jansson Editor: Harriet Oliver
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Iran protests: What’s happening?
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